More Than Love You by Shayla Black

Author:Shayla Black
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction, Romance
ISBN: 9781936596461
Publisher: Shayla Black
Published: 2017-12-27T05:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TEN

Two days later, Friday afternoon rolls around. I hate to leave Harlow when she’s vulnerable. Since our lovemaking in the shower, she’s been quiet, almost thoughtful. I slept beside her that night. I woke her up twice so I could be inside her again. She allowed me deep, clinging to me almost gratefully. I thought we’d turned a corner.

But when I woke at six the next morning, she was already in the gym, climbing the Stairmaster like it could take her far from me. All day—and all night—she gave me a wide berth. I let her…maybe more than I should have. I can’t pressure her more or upset her too much. She has to decide on her own. And it seems as if she is. But boarding a flight to Honolulu this morning was damn hard. Will she be waiting for me when I get back? Or will she have disregarded our summer-long contract, cleaned out her stuff, and left?

I have no assurances and no way of knowing. But I can’t force her to fall in love with me, simple as that.

Since I had a previous engagement, I flew to Oahu. Weeks ago, the high school I’d once attended and where I still hold most of the quarterback records asked me if I’d come lay some motivation on the kids just before finals and graduation. I owe that school for teaching me, for feeding me when my parents didn’t always have the money, and for helping to shape me into the man I am today. Despite my worries, I said yes and hope I can keep myself together.

The visit is a surprise. No one knows I’m coming, and when I jog out to the middle of the gym floor, the kids all scream and shout. I say a few words I’ve rehearsed about determination, being true to yourself, and always doing your best, then we sing the school song together. I still remember it. Finally, I sign a few footballs for kids who play on the current squad and let girls half my age practice their flirting as I answer their pretend questions about pro sports and life’s tough decisions. Then with a smile and a wave, I head back to the airport in Honolulu. I’ve got a plane to catch back to Maui. Back to Harlow.

I hope.

It’s been a great afternoon, and I love being near my roots again so I can give back to my community. In fact, I left the school’s athletic fund a nice donation before I departed. It feels good to be able to give back.

A couple of hours later, I’m savoring the high as I’m strolling through the airport, ball cap pulled low. Most people don’t notice me. Tourists are heading back to the mainland. Businessmen are dashing to flights bound for Tokyo or San Francisco. No one is paying me much mind as I loiter in a seat in the corner at the gate.

Until a guy in his mid-twenties sits in the uncomfortable vinyl chair beside me.

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